A significant milestone in the government’s drive to empower young Tanzanians in the mineral sector was reached yesterday as 423 youth from Mirerani and Lemshuku were issued mining and trading licences under the Mining for Better Tomorrow (MBT) programme, signalling a decisive shift toward formalising small-scale gemstone operations.
The initiative is part of the government’s broader agenda to expand economic inclusion by ensuring young people and women gain structured entry into one of the country’s most valuable industries.
Officials say formalisation will strengthen accountability, improve market access and raise incomes for thousands who have long operated under informal arrangements.
Speaking at a community meeting in Lemshuku Village, Simanjiro District, Minister for Minerals Anthony Mavunde said the government views licensing as a tool for transforming the gemstone economy into an industry that benefits citizens more equitably.
He added that giving young miners legal status protects them from exploitation and positions them for sustainable growth.
“When we give you a licence, we are giving you legitimacy and a stake in the national economy,” he told the youth.
“Our aim is to see Tanzanians take charge of the mineral sector and turn our mining zones into competitive trading centres.”he added
During the event, 21 youth groups were formally integrated into the tanzanite value chain. Seven groups 127 young miners received small-scale mining licences, while 14 groups with 296 members were issued tanzanite trading licences, allowing them to operate within the legal marketplace for the first time.
In addition to issuing licences, the minister inspected construction of the Lemshuku Mineral Trading Centre, which has reached 88 percent completion.
The centre is expected to bring transparency and stability to the gemstone market by offering secure trading spaces, standardised pricing and regulated transactions.
Mr Mavunde directed the Mirerani Resident Mines Officer to accelerate the finishing works to enable the centre to open soon.
The minister also held discussions with miners, who raised concerns over water shortages, unreliable power, inadequate roads, security challenges and limited access to social services.
He assured them the issues would be addressed, saying no mining community can thrive without strong supporting infrastructure.
He noted that construction of the Lemshuku Health Centre is progressing, and efforts to secure a reliable supply of clean water are ongoing.
These investments, he said, reflect the government’s commitment to improving the welfare of mining communities as part of a more inclusive sectoral strategy.
Looking ahead, Mr Mavunde announced that mineral exploration using drone technology will begin in February 2026 in Simanjiro, marking a shift toward modern, data-driven resource mapping aimed at improving the sector’s long-term planning.
At the close of the ceremony, youth groups pledged to support peace and stability, saying a secure environment is essential for protecting their new economic opportunities.